Emanuel Odiase delivers a lightning knockout and is "African Champion" | BOXSPORT
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Emanuel Odiase delivers a lightning knockout and is “African Champion”

2. October 2025
Redaktion

Emanuel Odiase has won the WBA African title. The German heavyweight defeated Idris Afinni by T.K.O. in round one in Nigeria’s capital Lagos.

Heavyweight Emanuel Odiase celebrated a successful debut on the African continent. Now the 26-year-old from Heidelberg wants to tackle the European Championship title. (Photo: imago-images / speedshot)

Heidelberg heavyweight Emanuel Odiase (9-0, 8 knockouts) put in an impressive performance to defeat the experienced Nigerian Idris Affini (18-10-2, 15 knockouts). With this success, Odiase secures the WBA African heavyweight title, which will be added to the International German Championship title won on July 19 in Heidelberg. This will move Odiase into the top 15 of the WBA world rankings and opens up the chance of a possible European Championship title fight.

Personal milestone for Odiase

The fight had special significance due to its venue: the 26-year-old fought the penultimate main event at the Mobolaji Johnson Stadium in Lagos, Nigeria, his father’s home country – and on Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day. The historic backdrop and special atmosphere among several thousand boxing fans made another personal milestone possible for Emanuel Odiase. The victory also coincided with the 50th anniversary of the “Thrilla in Manila”, the legendary fight of his idol Muhammad Ali.

“As soon as I arrived in Nigeria, I felt a special energy. The positive attitude of the people here immediately put a smile on my face and gave me a lot of strength,” said Odiase. “By making it into the top 15, I can fight for the European Championships next year – just as we planned.”

Emanuel Odiase, surrounded by enthusiastic children. (Photo: private)

Florian Winter was also delighted with Odiase’s performance and is looking ahead. “Our goal is to go for the world championship in 2027 – this victory was a decisive step towards that,” said the manager. “The fight was over after half a round, Emanuel made it look effortless. That not only shows his exceptional boxing skills, but also the power of his punches. We will continue to work towards our common goals with the same consistency.”

Focus on international career

With this triumph, Emanuel Odiase has underpinned his position as a rising star in the heavyweight division. His focus is now on his further international career and the possibility of boxing for the European Championship soon.

In the stable of manager Florian Winter, the signs are pointing to success: Nelvie Tiafack, who he also looks after, will be back in the ring in November – this time in Miami – after his convincing victory in Montreal at Jake Paul’s “Most Valuable Promotions”.

Text: Press release / Ringside Zone